NOUN ACETEL Conducts Virtual Semester Examinations, Widens Reach Across Africa

The Africa Centre of Excellence on Technology Enhanced Learning (ACETEL) of the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN) has administered its 2023/2024 first and second semester virtual examinations for students enrolled in its Masters and PhD programmes. 

The examinations, onducted online, were for both regional and international students in the fields of Management Information Systems, Artificial Intelligence and Cybersecurity.

The virtual exams, which commenced from July 29 and ended on August 10, 2024, marked a significant milestone in ACETEL’s ongoing efforts to deliver advanced education across Africa and beyond.

The Director, ACETEL, Prof. Grace Jokthan, who led the centre in achieving the milestone of graduating its pioneer students, is also working in similar direction to graduate its second set of students.

"Our students are currently taking their examinations virtually, a testament to our commitment to digital learning," Jokthan said during the examination period, while chattng with the centre’s Communications Officer.

This year, a total of 101 students participated in the examinations, including 96 regional students and five international students, representing an increase in participation compared to the previous year.

Prior to the commencement of the exams, a pre-examination orientation was conducted by the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN’s) Director of Examination and Assessment (DEA), Prof. Olugbenga Ojo, which was designed to ensure that all students were fully prepared for the virtual examination process. 

A report by ACETEL’s IT Officer, Abu Kadafa, said the "Students were briefed on the necessary requirements, including the types of computers suitable for the exam and the software and hardware specifications needed."    

Kadafa emphasised the importance of the proctoring system in maintaining the integrity of the examinations, saying that "Students were given detailed explanations of the proctoring system, including how it operates and what to expect during the exams. This is crucial for ensuring academic integrity and appropriate behavior throughout the process." 

He noted the robust security measures implemented to guarantee the fairness and integrity of the virtual examinations, which include a strict login timeframe, browser lockdown, randomised question pools, and activity logs. "These security measures collectively ensure that our virtual examinations uphold the highest academic standards."

The IT Officer stated that given the different regions and time zones, no significant difficulties were encountered, noting that "Our monitoring systems and well-coordinated exam schedules have ensured smooth and effective supervision across all locations."